Brentwood Real Estate
Brentwood is a beautiful neighborhood on the west side of Los Angeles. Brentwood is known for its convenient location near Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills, and the Sunset Strip. Brentwood’s main thoroughfare is San Vicente Boulevard which has a wide grassy boulevard, ancient coral trees, running paths down the median, and is lined with amazing dining, shopping, and salons. Brentwood’s reputation is one of class and reserve, for those looking to live an upscale life without the fast pace of city life. Brentwood has quiet residential streets, beautiful homes, fantastic schools, and a very low crime rate.
Brentwood was established in the 1880s after the Mexican-American war, following the creation of a National Home for Disabled Soldiers and Sailors. The veterans who lived here stimulated economic growth of Brentwood and homes began to spring up outside of the facility’s gates. Brentwood was originally a small and wealthy community known as Westgate that got its name because of its location in terms near the west gate of the veteran’s sanitarium. Brentwood was originally known for its verdant agriculture: many grew soybeans and avocados here before the large stately homes sprang up.
Bounded by the San Diego Freeway, Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica and Topanga State Park and Mullholand Drive on the ridge-line, Brentwood has access to nature and city alike. Today Brentwood has a thriving commercial district along Wilshire, San Vicente, and Sunset boulevards, beautiful residential neighborhoods, and green belt along San Vicente Boulevard. Local Brentwood traditions include holiday lights on the gorgeous Coral Trees, and a Maypole on the lawn of the Archer School for Girls.
There are many micro-neighborhoods within Brentwood. Brentwood Circle is a private gated community east of Barrington and north of Sunset. Brentwood Country Estates is a private gated community in Mandeville Canyon. Brentwood Hills above the 405 Freeway is the home to Mt. St. Mary’s College and The Getty Center. Brentwood Sunset is a gated community north of San Vicente Blvd. Crestwood Hills in the Santa Monica Mountains is known for its architecturally significant mid-century modern residences. Mandeville Canyon is known for its lush foliage and huge home lots set far back from its winding road that climbs towards Mulholland Drive. Museum Heights has contemporary condominiums and is located right off of Sunset Blvd. South Brentwood neighborhood has mid-size residential lots and is located between San Vicente and Wilshire Blvds. Sullivan Canyon is a small equestrian community north of Sunset Blvd.
While there is some diversity in architecture, many of the Brentwood homes embody a California Hacienda style, with round lines and stucco porticoes, while some take on a more traditional Colonial style. Brentwood is a close-knit community in the heart of Los Angeles and to many is the perfect place to raise a family and enjoy a professional life close to the industries of Los Angeles. Brentwood community resources include the Barrington Recreation Center with indoor gymnasium, baseball diamonds, basketball courts, playground, football field, soccer field, tennis courts, volleyball courts, dog park, and picnic area. Popular Brentwood destinations include the Brentwood Country Mart which is an indoor farmers market founded in 1947, Brentwood Village shopping district, and the Brentwood Green, a popular children’s playground for the community. High profile Brentwood residents include Ben Affleck, Reese Witherspoon, Tom Brady, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Places of Interest:
The Getty Center:
This museum is the Campus for the trust of the late oil tycoon J. Paul Getty, housing a large portion of his art collection. The 1.3 Billion Dollar structure is also famous for its views, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscaping and gardens. The space also features rotating exhibits in addition to its permanent collection. Open and free to the public, there is a parking charge per vehicle. It is host to many film nights and lectures and offers a restaurant and food court on the premises.
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